St. Bonaventure University is calling on friends and community members in the Olean area to rally behind students during Bona Giving Day on Tuesday, Feb. 24 — a 24-hour fundraising initiative designed to strengthen scholarships, academic programs and the student experience.
A special Friends of Bonaventure Match, offered by Norb Bennet of Holland, New York, Class of 1962, will amplify Giving Day contributions. Beginning at 6 a.m. on Feb. 24, every dollar donated will be matched $1 for $1, up to $5,000, until the matching funds are exhausted. Donors are encouraged to give early to maximize the opportunity to double their impact and to select the “Friends” affiliation on the donation page.
Gifts can be made online at https://bonniesgive.sbu.edu/bonagivingday.
Bona Giving Day is more than a fundraiser; it’s a demonstration of the collective pride and commitment of the extended Bonnies community. University leaders emphasize that participation is just as important as dollars raised.
“Every gift matters, no matter the size,” said Dr. Jeff Gingerich, university president. “Foundations and major benefactors look closely at alumni and community participation rates when determining institutional support. When hundreds — or thousands — of people give, it sends a powerful message about the strength and loyalty of the Bonnies community.”
While alumni participation remains vital, the university is also encouraging external community support from friends, local businesses and supporters who believe in St. Bonaventure’s Franciscan mission of educating students for lives of purpose and service.
“Our impact reaches far beyond campus,” said CJ Pierce, interim director of Annual Giving. “When the broader community invests in St. Bonaventure, they are investing in future leaders, educators, health professionals, business executives and public servants who will strengthen our region and our world.”
Whether it’s $5, $50 or $500, every gift contributes to student success — and every donor strengthens St. Bonaventure’s case for future investment, Pierce said.
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